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IC 8839 



Bureau of Mines Information Circular/1981 




Minerals Health and Safety 

Contract Research, Development, 

and Demonstration in Fiscal Year 1981 



By Staff, Division of Minerals Health 
and Safety Technology 




UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR 



Information Circular 8839 



Minerals Health and Safety 

Contract Research, Development, 

and Demonstration in Fiscal Year 1981 



By Staff, Division of Minerals Health 
and Safety Technology 




UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR 
James G. Watt, Secretary 

BUREAU OF MINES 






This publication has been cataloged as follows: 



Minerals health and safety contract research, development, and 
demonstration in fiscal year 1981. 

(Information circular / United States Department of the Interior, 
Bureau of Mines ; 8839) 

1. Mine safety— United States. I. United States. Bureau of Mines. 
Division of Minerals Health and Safety Technology. II. Series: In- 
formation circular (United States. Bureau of Mines) ; 8839- 



TN295.U4 622s [622'.8'0973] 81-1579 AACR2 



CONTENTS 

Page 

Abstract 1 

Introduction 1 

Program outline 2 

Health 3 

Respirable dust 3 

Control of dust formation 3 

Control of generated dust 3 

Dust instrumentation and measurement 3 

Radiation hazards 4 

Radiation instrumentation and measurement 4 

Noise control 4 

Industrial hygiene 7 

Toxic gases and materials 7 

Diesels 8 

Ventilation 8 

Safety 9 

Fires and explosion prevention 9 

Prevention research 9 

Suppression research 9 

Propagation research 10 

Extinguishment research 10 

Detection, instrumentation, and alarm research 11 

Methane control 11 

Control during mining 11 

Ground control 12 

Premining investigations 12 

Selection of mining systems and mine opening design 13 

Roof support design 14 

Safe support installation and protection at the face 15 

Hazard detection and monitoring systems 17 

Mining and minerals processing waste stability 19 

Industrial hazards 20 

Human factors 20 

Electrical 23 

Equipment 25 

Illumination 27 

Nonemergency communications 28 

Haulage and materials handling 29 

Post disaster ., 31 

Survival 31 

Communications 32 

Rescue and mine recovery 33 

Explosives 34 

Blasting agents and other hazardous chemicals 34 

Systems engineering 34 

Systems analysis 34 

Test facilities 35 



MINERALS HEALTH AND SAFETY CONTRACT RESEARCH, 

DEVELOPMENT, AND DEMONSTRATION 

IN FISCAL YEAR 1981 

by 

Staff, Division of Minerals Health and Safety Technology 
ABSTRACT 



This publication summarizes, for potential contractors and other inter- 
ested parties, the research, development, and demonstration contract projects 
programed by the Bureau of Mines for fiscal year 1982 (October 1, 1980 
-September 30, 1981) under its Minerals Health and Safety Technology program. 
Contingencies may require that a significant portion of the program be 
deferred into fiscal year 1983. The objective of these projects is to provide 
an ordered and sequenced series of advances toward the Bureau's overall goal 
of providing the systems technology required to create a healthier and safer 
working environment for the Nation's mining and minerals processing workers. 



INTRODUCTION 



It is the policy of the Bureau of Mines to utilize as fully as possible 
the capabilities of the private sector in minerals research, and to that end 
this paper outlines the Bureau's current projected contract research needs. 



It is important to realize that since this is a summary document, the 
project descriptions related to a design, fabrication, and demonstration 
effort do not necessarily imply total package procurement. The projects 
presented here represent the plans conceived at the beginning of the fiscal 
year and are subject to change based on emerging priorities and the avail- 
ability of funds. A companion publication, Information Circular 8840, lists 
in-house projects. 



Contracts for the Minerals Health and Safety Research program will be 
conducted in strict accordance with Federal Procurement Regulations. Avail- 
ability of requests for proposals (RFP's) will be formally advertised in the 
Commerce Business Daily. No additional information will be supplied on these 
projects until after the RFP's are made available and then only in strict 
accordance with prescribed procedures. This document is not intended to 
solicit proposals from the contracting community. All unsolicited proposals 
(USP's) whose content reflects the objective(s) of proposed projects listed 
herein will be returned without formal review. 



PROGRAM OUTLINE 



The objective of the Minerals Health and Safety Technology program is to 
protect the health and safety of mining and minerals processing workers while 
insuring that newly developed technology incorporates health and safety 
criteria. In achieving this objective, four fundamental and complementary 
requirements must be considered by the research program, as follows: 



1. Contributing to the viability of a basic industry, 

2. Sustaining productivity. 

3. Allowing for a return on capital investment. 

4. Providing material and energy to the public. 



Since mining and minerals processing involves a highly integrated and 
interrelated set of functions, the program has been divided into a set of 
interrelated subprograms, each with goals that will provide systems technology 
solutions to the problems within the framework of these fundamental require- 
ments. The Minerals Health and Safety Technology program is divided into 12 
subprogram areas as shown: 



Health 

Respirable Dust 
Radiation Hazards 
Noise Control 
Industrial Hygiene 
Ventilation 



Safety 

Fire and Explosion Prevention 

Methane Control 

Ground Control 

Industrial Hazards 

Post Disaster 

Explosives 

Systems Engineering 



The objectives of these subprograms are described in the following pages, 
followed by the planned projects and their corresponding descriptions. It is 
not possible to give exact dollar estimates by sub-program area for competi- 
tive reasons, but the aggregate value of the anticipated contracts is approxi- 
mately $37 million. 



HEALTH 
Respirable Dust 



Program Objectives : To develop procedures for controlling the respirable mine 
dusts that still constitute the severest health problem facing the mining and 
minerals processing industries. To develop and/or improve techniques and 
equipment to prevent formation of hazardous dust concentration, and to protect 
miners against dusty atmospheres. 



Control of Dust Formation 



1 . In-Mine Testing of the BOM's Low-RPM, Deep-Cutting Continuous Mining 
Machine" 

Objective : To determine specific forces and their magnitude encountered 
during mining of coal with an instrumented, deep-cutting, continuous mining 
machine. This information shall be made available to the mining equipment 
industry to design and construct production versions of the low-RPM, deep- 
cutting continuous mining machine. This is a continuation of an ongoing 
effort. 



Control of Generated Dust 



2. Optimizing Water Sprays for Dust Control on Longwall Shearer Faces 

Objective : To test and evaluate water spray systems on longwall faces. To 
compare optimized water spray system with conventional system formerly in use 
at a full-scale model longwall face. The optimized system shall be tested in 
at least five mines. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

3 . Mine Demonstrations of Longwall Dust Control Techniques 

Objective : To evaluate the effectiveness of available dust control technology 
for double-drum shearer longwall sections in a coordinated, systematic program 
at a few longwall test sections, and to make the results available to the 
entire coal mining industry. This is a new RFP. 



Dust Instrumentation and Measurement 



4. Field Prototype Light-Scattering Machine-Mounted Respirable Dust Monitor 

Objective : To develop a reliable device that can be mounted in the vicinity 
of a mining machine operator that will give the operator a visual signal of 
the immediate environmental dust level. This is a continuation of an ongoing 
effort. 



5. Evaluation of Dust-Measuring Instruments 

Objective : To conduct a laboratory evaluation of selected dust measurement 
instruments, both prototype and those commercially available, to determine 
precision and accuracy for representative mine aerosols, and to develop cali- 
bration procedures for each instrument. This is a continuation of an ongoing 
effort. 

6 . Personal Dust Exposure Monitor 

Objective : To develop a reliable, sufficiently accurate personal exposure 
monitor for respirable coal mine dusts. The device shall provide the wearer 
with a warning when corrective actions are necessay. It shall be of suitable 
size, weight, and accuracy so that it can replace the personal dust sampler. 
This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 



Radiation Hazards 



Program Objectives : To develop and provide new and improved radiation instru- 
mentation, measurement, and control technology for protection of miners from 
exposure to radon and radon daughters and other nuclear radiation hazards in 
uranium and other mines. 



Radiation Instrumentation and Measurement 



1 . Passive Nuclear Track Dosimeter 

Objective : To continue modifications of existing dosimeter design to reflect 
improvements suggested by in-mine tests. To investigate new designs and con- 
cepts to reduce maintenance and contamination of external detector in active 
mine environments. To conduct verification testing in the laboratory and in 
the Twilight Mine and active mines. This is a continuation of an ongoing 
effort. 



Noise Control 



Program Objectives : To identify noise sources in underground and surface 
mines and In related mineral processing surface facilities, to abate these 
noise sources through both field retrofit and factory redesign approaches so 
that the mining operations and minerals processing activities meet the Federal 
noise exposure standards, to provide more accurate measurement and instru- 
mentation of the noise environment, and to provide industry with the technical 
knowledge necessary to select, design, and implement noise control measures. 



1 . Investigation and Control of Noise Generated During Coal Cutting 

Objective : To develop practical methods of abating the airborne noise gener- 
ated by the cutting and extraction of coal by current and next-generation 
mining machines. The airborne noise generated during cutting and extraction 
shall be investigated by laboratory experimental techniques as well as by 
actual insitu test. A generalized noise prediction model shall be developed 
to identify and evaluate noise control modifications and redesigns for cutting 
and extraction devices. Hardware shall be developed to determine the effec- 
tiveness of the changes. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort that has 
completed the laboratory testing phase. 

2 . Flammability Criteria for Noise Control Products Used in Underground 
Mines and in Confined Areas of Mineral Processing Plants 

Objective: To develop practical and safe flammability criteria and guidelines 
for the use of acoustic materials in the minerals industry. Using flamma- 
bility and acoustic application information developed previously, an overall 
hazard potential shall be determined. This is a continuation of an ongoing 
effort. 

3 . Noise Study of Longwall Mining Systems 

Objective : To develop quieter longwall mining equipment. The noise problems 
of longwall systems shall be identified, and feasible engineering controls 
that achieve quieter operation without affecting production shall be assessed 

and demonstrated. It is anticipated that the demonstration phase will involve 
a cooperative effort with a longwall equipment manufacturer. The identifi- 
cation and assessment phases were completed in FY80. This is a continuation 
of an ongoing effort. 

4. Current Levels of Whole-Body Vibrations in Mines 

Objective : To determine and assess the present levels of mine personnel expo- 
sure to whole-body vibrations and to compare these levels with the results of 

a medical literature search relating vibration parameters to physiological 
effects. This study represents the initial background effort in the possible 
establishment of a program in this area. This is a continuation of an ongoing 
effort. 

5 . Abatement of Taconite Plant Noise Sources 

Objective : To develop and demonstrate practical engineering noise controls 
for equipment used in taconite plants. Prior work in this area determined the 
noise sources in taconite plants and concentrated on secondary crushers. This 
effort shall be aimed at quieting screens, rodmills, autogenous and semiauto- 

genous mills, pneumatic rappers, and vacuum disk filters. Solutions developed 
shall be implemented in selected plants and evaluated to assess acoustic 
effectiveness, durability, and costs. This is a continuation of an ongoing 
effort. 



6. Retrofit of Underground Load-Haul-Dump Machines With Noise Control 
Packages 

Objective: To develop retrofit noise control technology for specific models 
of LHD machines. Noise control techniques shall be implemented and in-mine 
tested. Participation of the contractor with equipment manufacturers and mine 
operators is considered essential in conducting this contract. This contract 
is a continuation of ongoing efforts to quiet LHD's through retrofit means. 

7 . Vibrating-Screen Noise Abatement 

Objective: To field-test and evaluate a prototype noise-abated, low-head, 
sizing screen used in metal and nonmetal minerals processing. The screen 
shall be installed in a processing plant and tested under actual production 
conditions to evaluate noise, screening performance, and durability. This is 
a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

8. Bulldozer Noise Control 

Objective : To provide a series of one-day workshops intended to assist mine 
personnel in selecting, fabricating, and installing noise control treatments 
on bulldozers which were developed previously under this program. This is a 
continuation on an ongoing effort. 

9 . Noise Control of Rubber-Lined Front End Loader Used in Surface Mines 

Objective: To develop a noise control manual and a one-day workshop intended 
to compile and convey the previously developed work on retrofit of noise con- 
trol treatments for front end loaders. The workshop and manual shall be 
designed to assist mining personnel in selecting, fabricating, and installing 
the noise control treatments. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

10. Impact Assessment of the the BuMines Noise Control Program on the Coal 
Mining Industry - 

Objective : To determine the extent to which BuMines-deve loped noise control 
treatments have been adopted by the industry and to determine how effective 
they have been in reducing the noise exposure of miners. This is a new RFP. 

1 1 . Development of a Prototype Hand-Held Rock Drill for Use in Metal and 
Nonmetal Mines - 

Objective: To develop a reduced-noise hard rock drill for use in the metal 
and nonmetal mining industry. The basic technology that was successful in the 
development of a quieter coal mine pneumatic stoper drill shall be applied. 
This is a new RFP. 

12 . Predicting Nonmetallic Screen Deck Performance 

Objective : To conduct an extensive screen deck testing program in order to 
develop performance information and a computer model for the screening perfor- 
mance of nonmetallic decks. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 



13. Integrated Approach to Noise Control for an Auger Miner 

Objective: To identify dominant noise sources for auger miner systems with 
emphasis on continuous haulage, to develop feasible engineering noise control 
technology, and to perform an in-mine demonstration on an auger miner system. 
It is anticipated that the participation of an auger manufacturer will be 
required. This is a new RFP. 

Industrial Hygiene (Toxic Substances) 



Program Objectives : To identify and control health hazards in surface and 
underground mines and mineral processing plants caused by toxic and/or noxious 
gases and fumes, and certain particulates produced by explosives, combustible 
materials, and diesel engines. To develop and evaluate new instrumentation, 
methods, and procedures for monitoring these substances. To analyze alterna- 
tive power sources that may have health advantages over existing mine diesels. 



Toxic Gases And Materials 



1 . Determination of the Products of the Oxidative Thermal Degradation 
of Mine Materials 

Objective : To determine the identity and quantity of gas, fume, and smoke 
products generated during the stages of oxidative heating of materials used in 
mining; i.e., preignition heating, pyrolysis devolatilization, flaming and 
glowing combustion, and extinguishment. This is a continuation of an ongoing 
effort. 

2 . Monitoring of Mine Air Pollutants 

Objective : To develop and test engineering approaches for the control of mine 
air quality. To characterize exhaust gas distributions in various ventilation 
configurations in deadend drifts. To evaluate exhaust control hardware in 
simulated and real conditions. To investigate methods to identify diesel soot 
on respirable dust filters. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

3. Toxic Fumes From Explosives Tested in an Underground Mine 

Objective : To determine the presence of trace toxic products such as Nitrosa- 
mines and others which may be present along with the expected products CO, NOx, 

SO^, and NH3 in the fumes from explosives fired at the working face in a mine. 
This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

4. Determination of Hazards From Use of Urethane Foams Underground 

Objective : To determine the toxic and flammability hazards associated with use 
of foams for ventilation control, sound abatement, and spray applications in 
underground mine operations. To develop criteria from which guidelines for 
safe use of urethane foams can be established. This is a new RFP. 



5 . Development of Gas Sensors Based on Acid Fuel Cell Technology for Use 
in Mining 

Objective: To develop nitrogen dioxide diffusion sensors for reactive gases 
encountered in mines. To develop new electrode structure for rapid and stable 
response to gases and to implement long-term unattended operation of gas mon- 
itoring systems. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort to develop gas 
detectors. 



Diesels 



6. Development of Mobile C0£- and CHij-Indicating Monitors for Mining 
Equipment 

Objective: To design, develop, fabricate, laboratory-test, and deliver mobile 

CO - and CH^-indicating monitors for use on diesel-powered vehicles. Final 
versions of the monitors shall be based on previous developments and in-mine 

tested. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

7 . Diesel Exhaust Measurement Apparatus 

Objective : To devise and demonstrate a portable system to remove moisture and 
particulate matter, and reduce the temperature of diesel exhaust gas to facili- 
tate its analysis. This is a new RFP. 

8 . Relationship of Underground Diesel Engine Maintenance to Emissions 

Objective : To establish maintenance and equipment use patterns and relate them 
to rates of engine deterioration and emission levels. In-service diesel units 
shall be assessed with laboratory-quality emissions and diagnostic instrumenta- 
tion. Fuel, coolant, and lubricating oil shall be analyzed for contamination. 
Catalytic reactors shall be evaluated for conversion efficiencies. This is a 
continuation of an ongoing effort. 

9 . Development of a Diesel-Hydride Mine Power Source 

Objective : To evaluate a diesel-hydr ide power source (a diesel engine 
modified to burn hydrogen) for use in underground mining equipment from the 
standpoint of mine safety, technical feasibility, industry acceptance, and 
economics. To design a program leading to construction of a prototype and 
subsequent demonstration of such a vehicle should it be warranted. This is 
a continuation of an ongoing effort. 



Ventilation 



Program Objectives : To develop ventilation systems required to maintain a safe 
and healthful atmosphere conducive to efficient work output in noncoal mines. 



1. Water Turbine Energy Recovery System 

Objective : To design, develop, and test a fluid motor system that takes energy 
from the high-pressure water flowing in vertical pipelines in deep hot mines 
and converts this energy into useful mechanical or electrical energy. This is 
a new RFP. 

2. Develop and Test New Designs of Underground Direct-Contact Air-Water Heat 
Exchangers 

Objective: To develop new and improved direct-contact air-water heat 
exchangers for use in cooling the hot working areas of deep mines. This is a 
continuation of an ongoing project and will involve in-mine tests. 



SAFETY 



Fire and Explosion Prevention 

Program Objectives : To reduce the potential for fire or explosion in mineral 
extraction and processing operations; to minimize the danger to people on 
account of fires or explosions that do occur. 

Prevention Research 

1 . Combined Fire and Rot Treatment for Wood Mine Timber 

Objective : To develop combined fire and rot retardant treatment for new 
and already installed mine timber. To develop methodology for treating 
timber in mines for existing degree of hazard; e.g., for high-, moderate-, 
and low-hazard locations. To prepare treated timber samples (by impregnation 
and coating) as needed by the Bureau of Mines (and Bureau of Mines' 
contractors) for testing. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

Suppression Research 

2 . Frictional Ignition Suppression by Use of Cutter-Drum-Mounted Sprays 

Objective : To investigate the effectiveness of water sprays for cooling 
plumb-bob bits and thereby suppressing frictional ignition. This is a 
continuation of an ongoing effort. 

3 . Kinetic Studies Relevant to the Suppression of Coal Dust Explosions by 
Powdered Inhibitors 

Objective : To study the kinetics of decomposition of various inhibitor 
powders under flamelike time-temperature history conditions. This is a 
continuation of an ongoing effort. 



10 

4. Improved Fire Protection Systems for Underground Fueling Areas 

Objective : To evaluate the reliability and cost-effectiveness of various 
designs of improved fire protection hardware for underground fueling areas in 
the rugged mining environment and prepare an applications handbook. This is a 
continuation of an ongoing effort. 



Propagation Research 



5 . Fire and Explosion Hazards of Oil Shale Mining and Processing 

Objective : To collect sufficient data in developing and operating oil shale 
mines, and to conduct large-scale experiments in the field, so that the hazard 
due to explosion of dust, gas, or vapor and the hazards of uncontrolled fires 
in underground operations may be abated. This is a continuation of an ongoing 
effort. 

6. Large-Scale Gallery Testing To Assess Hazards of Mine Timber Fires 

Objective : To operate a large-scale fire gallery for evaluating the relative 
effectiveness of fire safety measures in metal and nonmetal mines, and to 

recommend improvements in mine safety and fire regulations based on results of 
fire trials. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

7 . Fire Hazard Measurements of Combustible Materials in a Small-Scale 
FTairtmability Apparatus 

Objective : To determine flammability hazard of mine materials under sitnu- 
lated fire conditions. To establish the validity of the results measured in 
the small-scale apparatus by comparison with results of large-scale fire 
tests. To recommend a version of the small-scale flammability test for MSHA's 
use as a tool for approval of mine materials. To determine optimum appli- 
cation rates of extinguishing agents. This is a continuation of an ongoing 
effort. 

8. Fire Hazard of Equipment in Large Workings 

Objective : To evaluate the potential hazard of equipment in large mine work- 
ings"! This is a new RFP. 



Extinguishment Research 



9. The Mode of Action of Extinguishing Agents Used Against Coal Dust 
Explosions 

Objective : To determine basic explanation for the relative extinguishing 
efficiency of agents used in coal mines against gas and coal dust explosions, 
To develop novel, state of the art extinguishing agents for gas and dust 
explosions. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 



11 



10. Remote Control of Fire Doors 

Objective : To develop an economical, practical, and reliable method for 
remotely operating fire doors. This is a new RFP. 



Detection, Instrumentation, and Alarm Research 



1 1 . Upgrade Stench Fire Warning System 

Objective : Develop and in-mine test a rugged, reliable remote stench release 
system for large underground metal and nonmetal mines. This is a continuation 
of an ongoing effort. 

12. High-Concentration Dust Meter 

Objective : To evaluate the high-concentration dust meter through field tests. 
This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

13. Improved Fire Detection Systems for Belt Haulageways 

Objective : To demonstrate the feasibility of multipoint tube bundle sampling 
using a submicrometer particulate sensor for belt haulageway fire protection. 
This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

14. Development of a Remote Readout Coal Dust Deposition Rate 

Objective : To develop a commercially available, intrinsically safe remote 
readout coal dust deposition rate monitor. This is a continuation of an 
ongoing effort. 



Methane Control 



Program Objectives : To develop, demonstrate, and transfer technology that will 
prevent the formation of flammable methane-air mixtures in underground mine 
workings through improved ventilation and procedures for degas if ying the depo- 
sit or seam in advance of and during mining. To establish correlations 
between the geology of the material to be mined and its gas content, and to 

use these to predict methane emission hazards. 



Control During Mining 

1 • Cableless Borehole Survey Tool 

Objective : To competitively procure two electronic borehole surveying units 
for test and evaluation. The electronic surveying instrument aids in main- 
taining precise control during horizonal drilling, reduces survey time, and 
permits routine drilling to lengths of 2,000 to 3,000 feet. The instruments 
shall be tested and evaluated for reliability under a wide variety of drilling 
conditions. This is a new RFP. 



12 

2. Improved Diffuser and Spray-Fan Systems for Ventilation of Coal Mine 
Working Faces 

Objective : To continue research towards perfecting the spray fan system and 
demonstrating its effectiveness under a variety of mining conditions, particu- 
larly very gassy mines; to develop a diffuser fan-spray fan hybrid system 
which may offer advantages neither system alone will exhibit; to assess the 
effect of methane monitor placement and instrumentation lag on the indicated 
methane reading. This is a new RFP. 

3 . Methane Control in an Advancing Section of an Underground Coal Mine 

Objective : To demonstrate that methane can be reduced substantially by divert- 
ing methane flows within the coalbed to long horizontal holes drilled in 
advance of the section, and to demonstrate the safe operation of an underground 
pipeline and a surface installation. This is a new RFP. 

Ground Control 



Program Objectives : To conceive, develop, demonstrate, and transfer technology 
that will prevent mine accidents attributable to falls of ground, outbursts, 
slope failures, and collapse of waste impoundment structures. 



Premining Investigations 



1 . Detection of Mine Hazards and Geologic Conditions Using Electromagnetic 
and/or Seismic Probing from Boreholes 

Objective : To field-test a seismic probe for detecting and defining the loca- 
tion and extent of potential mine hazards. Specifically, to demonstrate the 
cross-borehole automated data collection-interpretation-display system at an 
underground coal mine. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

2. Coal Mine Hazard Detection Using Synthetic Radar 

Objective : To develop a useable and permissible synthetic pulse radar system 
that can be used in coal mines for the detection of hazards such as abandoned 
mines and well casings. A permissible system shall be built based on the 
breadboard circuit that was designed and demonstrated under contract number 
H0292025, "Coal Mine Hazard Detection Using Synthetic Pulse Radar." This 
system shall be tested, in at least two coal mines for the detection of 
hazards. This is a new RFP. 

3. Field Demonstration of Deep-Penetrating Borehole Geophysical Techniques 

Objective : To develop a borehole geophysical technique to remotely sense and 
locate geologic fractures that are indicators of potentially hazardous zones or 
obstacles to future mine development. Work shall begin to establish practical 
field implementation of the borehole radar probing method, and then transfer 
the technology to industry through a series of field demonstrations at coal 
mine sites. This is a new RFP. 



13 

4. Development of Integrated Geophysics for Mining Problems 

Objective : To develop potential effectiveness of integrated geophysical tech- 
niques for solving ground control problems in mining by evaluating the data of 
seismic, gravity, earth resistivity, and audio magneto telluric measurements 
available from previous field tests, conducting additional tests, and analyzing 
test results to demonstrate improved discrimination of various geologic 
hazards. This is a new RFP. 

5 . Combined Reflection and Through-Transmission Acoustic Cross-Borehole Hazard 
Detection System 

Objective: To develop and test an acoustic system operating between boreholes 
over distances from several to about 330 meters for the purpose of detecting 
and delineating geological hazards between borehole spacings. The system shall 
combine the best features of both reflection and through-transmission acoustic 
systems. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

6 . Improved Subsurface Control Data for High-Resolution Seismic and Acoustic 
Techniques 

Objective : To improve the reliability of geological interpretation of high- 
resolution geophysical data for analysis of subsurface features representing 
hazards to coal mining operations. Work to be done will be data acquisition 
at selected field site, stratigraphic modeling of the layered subsurface, com- 
puter processing and analysis, and a final report with recommendations for 
high-resolution control data acquisition and processing parameters. This is a 
new RFP. 



Selection of Mining Systems and Mine Opening Design 

7 . Design of Barrier Pillars To Withstand Hydrostatic Pressure and To 
Maintain Mountain Slope Stability - 

Objective : To define the likely modes of failure and the critical parameters 
for each failure mode for a barrier pillar constructed of in-place coal and 
subject to hydrostatic pressure. The influence of directional coal proper- 
ties and the impact and extent of barrier deterioration with time shall be 
investigated. As much information as possible on the performance of coal 
pillars that are now used or have been used as water barriers shall be collec- 
ted. This is a new RFP. 

8. Determine the Effects of Abandoned Barrier and Chain Pillars on the Ground 
Control of Successive Longwall Panels 

Objective : To determine the effects of leaving chain and barrier pillars in 
place between successively mined longwall panels on the ground control of 
active workings. Data shall be gathered from mine operators and other sources 
on interpanel effects of longwalling sequential panels, and shall be collected 
and evaluated specifically for trends in increased loading. This is a new 
RFP. 



14 

9. Pilot Mining Project for Assessment of Undercut -and-F ill System for 
Pitching Coal 

Objective ; To perform a small pilot mining project to test extraction rates, 
ground stability, ventilation, and coal transport parameters of undercut coal 
mining of pitching seam. Evaluation shall be made of the panel supports, 
stability of vrrious anchoring methods, effectiveness of hydraulic mining 
and suitability of the coal product for coke production, rates of extraction 
obtained when mining, the effectiveness of the hydraulic coal transportation, 
and effectiveness of the face ventilation scheme. This is a new RFP. 

10. Blasting Parameters That Affect Highwall Stability 

Objective : To determine the effect on highwall stability caused by control- 
lable blasting factors, and to study these factors by field testing. Param- 
eters such as blasthole size, loading techniques, delay systems, burden and 
spacing, bench height, geology, and hole inclination shall be studied. A field 
manual for use by mine personnel shall be prepared. This is a new RFP. 

1 1 . Evaluation and Demonstration of Underhand Stoping To Control Rock Bursts 

Objective ; To demonstrate an inherently safe underhand mining method that can 
replace the currently used cut-and fill mining method, and to determine the 
rock-burst potential for the mining method. The contractor shall manage the 
demonstration, purchase the specialized equipment, assist the BuMines in in- 
stalling instruments, gather data, and interpret results. Access to the demon- 
stration site shall be made available to interested parties. This is a 
continuation of an ongoing effort. 

12. Pit Slope Design Manual 

Objective : To prepare a concise practical design manual by compiling, col- 
lating, and assessing the state of knowledge on pit slope design. This manual 
shall contain data, formulas, graphs, and tables that give quick answers to 
questions on various subjects involved in pit slope stability design. This is 
a new RFP. 



Roof Support Design 



13. Solidification of Large Roof Falls 

Objective : To solidify roof falls to allow for safer installation of tunnel 
liners under the falls, and to fill voids above the falls to prevent methane 
accumulations. This is a new RFP. 

14. High-Coal Rib and Pillar Supports 

Objective : To develop and demonstrate both currently used and innovative 
methods of supporting high-coal ribs and pillars, and to evaluate these methods 
relative to their use under various mining conditions and applications. This 
is a new RFP. 



15 



15. Investigation of Roof Loads Induced by Mining Equipment 

Objective : To determine the maximum loads induced in mine roof by general 
types of mining equipment such as hydraulic props, canopies on roof bolters, 
automatic extraction system loading platens, and similar equipment, and to 
determine what deleterious effects these loads have dependent on roof geology. 
Using field data, critical parameters shall be established for given geology 
and types of mining equipment used, and for optimal roof loading ranges for 
support members. This is a new RFP. 

16. Resin Injection and Resin Doweling for Longwall Face Stabilization 

Objective ; To define and rank problems of roof and face stabilization in 
longwalls; to evaluate foreign and domestic technology in resin-injection and 
resin-doweling for application in U.S. mines; to select those techniques that 
indicate the greatest benefits per cost and are not unnecessarily hazardous, 
and develop testing procedures to demonstrate their effectiveness on longwall 
stabilization problems; and to perform and document the demonstrations and 
reassess the cost and safety benefits. This is a continuation of an ongoing 
effort. 

17. Develop a Confined-Space, Drag-Jet Drill 

Objective : To develop a dependable, durable, and economical 7/8-inch-diameter 
water jet drill with drag bit assist, having longer-than-seam-height capacity. 
A prototype drill shall be laboratory tested and demonstrated in the field at 
an underground coal mine. This is a new RFP. 

18. Commercial Production Feasibility of Inorganic Cartridges 

Objective : To identify and evaluate problem areas in the continuous produc- 
tion of water capsules and hydrocal cartridges using commercial equipment, and 
to evaluate the quality of these products through laboratory and field 
testing. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 



Safe Support Installation and Protection at the Face 

19. Remote-Controlled Bolter 

Objective : To develop a simple, reliable, dependable, economical, mechanical 
and resin, remote-controlled roof bolt module that is able to place longer- 
than-seam-height bolts up to 10 feet long from a seam height of 36 to 72 inches 
and keep the operator outby the last permanent support. This is a continuation 
of an ongoing effort. Fabrication and laboratory testing shall be completed, 
and field testing shall begin. 

20. Design, Fabricate, and Test Cement-Grouted Slurry Bolter 

Objective : To design, build, and mine-test a machine that will mix and inject 
fast-setting inorganic grouts. The final object of the program is commercial 
acceptance of the bolter. Phase III (Laboratory Testing of the Complete 
Synthesized System) and Phase IV (Mine Testing and Final Report) shall be 



16 



completed. This will include installation of from 70 to 100 bolts to support 
an intersection. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

21 . Improved Installation Equipment for Roof Trusses 

Objective : To design and demonstrate improved installation equipment and 
practices for solid-rod roof trusses. A contract to develop equipment improve- 
ments that would provide quicker installation of roof trusses was initiated in 
FY79. Additional work is needed for field demonstration and perfecting 
improvements. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

22. Design and Develop Standardized Roof Bolter Controls 

Objective : To extend and apply past research efforts on human engineering 
technology in a practical, uniform way to new roof bolting machines, and 
demonstrate their contributions in correcting present hazardous, accident- 
prone situations. The work is detailed design and fabrication. The final 
control conf iguations will be adopted in the SAE handbook. This is a contin- 
uation of an ongoing effort. 

23. Development of a Hydromechanical Roof Splitter for Ground Control in 
Longwall Operations in Massive Roof 

Objective : To develop a mechanical means to systematically break down massive 
roof so as to reduce the risks of roof falls and inherent hazards in the long- 
wall operation. This shall be done by reevaluating the breaking load require- 
ments and optimizing the breaker configuration for the splitter operating 
under massive roof. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

24. Safety Analysis of Roof Bolting Machines Used in Metal and Nonmetal 
Mining 

Objective : To conduct field observations of machines in use in the metal and 
nonmetal industry and to identify equipment deficiencies and operational proce- 
dures that cause the operator to be exposed to fall of ground. Survey results 
shall be catalogued and made available to MSHA enforcement agencies. This is a 
new RFP. 

25. Development of a Mechanized Scaler 

Objective : To develop a mechanized scaling device for making the job of scal- 
ing safer and more effective, and to remove the operator from the dangerous 
area. The scaler shall be adaptable to as many of the various sizes of mine 
openings as possible and shall be capable of both scaling the back and ribs and 
breaking up any oversize rock knocked down. The contractor shall concentrate 
his design effort on the smaller size openings of cut-and-fill mining block 
caving systems, sublevel stopings, etc., rather than on large room-and-pi liar- 
type openings. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 



17 
Hazard Detection and Monitoring Systems 

26. Development of an Ultrasonic Rock Bolt Monitoring System 

Objective: To expand the basic capabilities of the ultrasonic monitoring sys- 
tem to allow bolt load to be remeasured at any time after installation without 
load cells or torque checks. With the support of a Bureau of Mines contract 
(H0282032), researchers at the NASA Langley Research Center have developed an 
ultrasonic system capable of measuring the change in tension in a 6-foot-long 
roof bolt as the bolt is loaded; it is called a pulsed-phase locked-loop sys- 
tem. The measurement is made by sending a burst of ultrasonic energy down the 
bolt and receiving the reflected signal. The phase shift difference between 
the transmitted and received signals is linearly related to the change in 
stress in the bolt. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

27. Measurement of Installed Roof Bolt Tension 

Objective : To test and evaluate the pulsed-phase locked-loop bolt tension 
monitor developed by NASA on mechanically anchored mine roof bolts, and to 
incorporate this monitor into a roof bolting machine. This is a new RFP. 

28. Detection of Abandoned Workings and Cased and Uncased Oil Wells From 
Microwave Measurements at the Working Face 

Objective : To assemble a hardened underground microwave measurement instru- 
ment and obtain certification for permissibility. This instrument shall be 
suitable for mounting on a longwall machine and on a room-and-pillar mining 
machine. Data enhancement techniques shall be strengthened with special 
emphasis on proving the worth of three-dimensional target identification with 
the near-field antenna evaluation technique under development. This technique 
shall be tested at a coal mine. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

29. Development of a Focused Electrode Array To Detect Mine Voids 

Objective : To develop electrode configuration for resistivity measurement 
that will allow depth penetrations two to four times greater than the system 
currently being developed, as well as much higher resolution of the exact loca- 
tion of air or water-filled voids in proximity to current mining activities. 
This new system shall be integrated into the high-resolution earth resistivity 
measurement system currently being developed by the Bureau to increase its cap- 
abilities. This is a new RFP. 

30. Mine Inundation Warning Systems 

Objective : To determine the time for flow of impounded mine water to occur 
through mined-out areas under various conditions, and investigate methods for 
providing warning in the event of failure of a mine seal or pillar used to 
hold back the water. This is a new RFP. 



18 



31 . Fabricate and Demonstrate Student-Designed Roof Failure Indicators 

Objective : To encourage the design of roof failure indicator or monitoring 
equipment in graduate and undergraduate level engineering design courses. 
Students in engineering design courses shall be assigned the task of selecting 
and designing a device or system for monitoring or predicting roof failure. 
Selected designs shall be fabricated and laboratory tested. Satisfactory pro- 
totypes shall be field-tested. This is a new RFP . 

32. Roof Bolt Tension Measuring System 

Objective: To collect bolt tension data on several installation practices: 
how well a bolter-installed torque is maintained, what tension bleed-off 
values are for a particular strata, and how well bolts act as a monitoring 
system to indicate increasing or decreasing roof loads. This contract will 
provide 100 rock bolt load cell systems for MSHA inspectors to use underground 
to collect this bolt tension data. This is a continuation of an ongoing 
effort. 

33. Development of a Roof Competence Tester 

Objective : To develop and evaluate a hand-held instrument for accuracy and 
reliability in detecting cracks, fissures, delaminations, and poorly cemented 
and otherwise weak rock structure in coal mine roof. The instrument shall be 
suitable for use with all thicknesses of coalbeds and different roof composi- 
tions. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

34. Prototype Microseismic Roof Fall Warning System 

Objective : To test the commercial prototype microseismic system in both east- 
ern and western coal mines, make modifications indicated by the field tests, 
and obtain system permissibility. The commercial system shall be tested in 
parallel with the research systems to facilitate comparison of test results. 
All systems shall be upgraded as required. This is a continuation of an 
ongoing effort. 

35. Commercially Practical Resistivity Roof Fall Warning System 

Objective : To develop a commercially practical electrical resistivity roof 
fall warning system that can be operated reliably in an underground mine 
environment over long periods of time and with only minimal supervision or 
maintenance. It shall be capable of emitting a warning when roof falls appear 
imminent. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

36. Develop Microseismic Handbook 

Objective : To develop a handbook for use by the layman for the selection, 
installation, interpretation, and usage of microseismic monitoring systems for 
prediction of catastrophic ground failures, such as rock bursts, coal bounces, 
and coal outbursts. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 



19 
Mining and Minerals Processing Waste Stability 

37. Safety and Health Problems Associated With Underground Mine Waste 
Disposal 

Objective: To identify potential safety and health hazards to underground 
miners that could result from the underground disposal of mine waste. This 
is a new RFP. 

38. Disposal of Wastes Over Active Underground Mines 

Objective: To determine if guidelines can be developed for safe and econom- 
ical methods for the disposal of wastes over active underground coal mines. 
The contractor shall identify different types of mine wastes and evaluate their 
hazards to underground mining; evaluate underground parameters that may affect 
the waste pile's stability; evaluate peripheral conditions that may affect the 
waste disposal area; evaluate probable safety features that may be incorporated 
either above or below ground; and compare available waste disposal techniques 
for their applicability. This is a new RFP. 

39. Centrifuge Model Testing of Waste Embankments 

Objective : To determine safety criteria for tailings embankments by simula- 
ting field conditions using a centrifuge for modeling. Tests shall be run on a 
25-foot-radius centrifuge to investigate seepage and erosion effects, founda- 
tion differentials, and other embankment construction problems. This is a 
continuation of an ongoing effort. 

40. Satellite Monitoring of Coal Waste Embankments 

Objective : To demonstrate the use of a satellite communication link with a 
remote data collection station located on a coal waste embankment. A suitable 
satellite shall be selected and negotiations undertaken to use it. A data 
platform shall be bought or rented and placed at the test site to connect with 
the instruments already in place from previous work. The present data 
collection station at the test site shall remain in use to check data received 
from the satellite and to provide additional long-term information from the 
instruments. Data from the two data stations shall be compared and evaluated 
to provide information as to the most reliable and cost-effective system. 
This is a new RFP. 

41. Critical Parameters for Tailings Embankments 

Objective : To construct probability density functions of soil parameters for 
tailings embankments that are representative of the major mining commodities 

in the United States. The contractor shall collect and categorize engineering 
parameters of tailings embankments for future input to slope stability models, 
construct probability density functions of the data, and compute the mean and 
variance of the data. This is a new RFP. 



20 

42. Compaction Criteria for Metal and Nonmetal Tailings 

Objective : To develop data to determine compaction criteria for various metal 
and nonmetal wastes for both surface and underground disposal. The contractor 
shall determine the extent of compaction criteria available through an exten- 
sive literature search. Samples of tailings from various types of metal and 
nonmetal mines shall be obtained, and laboratory tests including maximum den- 
sity, grain size, permeability, and static shear shall be conducted. The con- 
tractor shall determine correlations between laboratory results and actual 
field compaction efforts. This is a new RFP. 



Industrial Hazards 



Program Objectives : To limit the possibility of human error through training 
and worker-machine interfacing, improve equipment design and controls, detect 
and prevent failures of electric circuitry and hardware, provide adequate 
lighting in working areas, insure continuous and reliable communication between 
all underground and surface personnel, while providing continuous surveillance 
of the mine environment, and improve safety in haulage and materials-handling 
operations. 



Human Factors 



1 . Design, Development, and Validation of Training System for Roof Bolt 
Equipment Operators 

Objective : To continue the validation efforts of the roof bolter training 
system, extending the scope of application to include roof bolter machines of 
various manufacturers, and provide additional sets of copies of the final pro- 
ducts. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

2. Development of Training Programs for Shaft and Slope Construction 
Personnel 

Objective : To design, develop, implement, and validate training programs 
within the realm of the mine shaft construction industry that will alleviate 
accidents and injuries in the shaft construction industry. The training pro- 
grams include task training, new miner training, and refresher courses. This 
is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

3 . Study of Use of Personal Equipment in Low Coal 

Objective : To continue work efforts in determining optimal personal equipment 
design for use in low coal, based on ergonomic, biomechanic, and safety con- 
siderations. Personal equipment for miners working in low coal is generally 
identical to that of miners working in higher seam heights. This contract is 
investigating personal equipment development and determining optimal designs 
based on environmental work parameters such as seam height and work postures. 
This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 



21 

4. Biomechanical Study of Work in Low Coal 

Objective: To continue with a research study of work physiology and bio- 
mechanics in low coal with the intent of generating data that can be utilized 
in optimal job and work station designs. Strength and work capacity measure- 
ments of miners shall be taken and correlated with physical demands of various 
job tasks. Recommendations for task and job redesign shall be made. This is a 
continuation of an ongoing effort. 

5 . Haulage Truck Training System 

Objective: To design, develop, and validate a training program for front- 
end-loader and haulage truck operators. A method of conducting on-the-job 
training shall be formalized, and training equipment shall be developed. This 
is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

6. Development of Materials and Strategies for Normal and Emergency Operation 
of Surface Mining Equipment - 

Objective : To continue with the development, validation, and implementation 
of model training programs for emergency as well as normal operation of equip- 
ment used in surface mining operations. This is a continuation of an ongoing 
effort. 

7 . Development of Safety-Oriented Supervision and Management Training Program 
for the Underground Coal Mining Industry 

Objective : To define accident-related work behavior in underground coal mines 
and to develop, implement, and validate a supervisory training program for 
behavior modification through the use of applied behavior management tech- 
niques. The ultimate goal is to specify and define accident-related work 
behaviors with sufficient precision that any resultant changes in the unsafe 
behavior during the research program can be replicated by other mine managers. 
This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

8 . Research To Determine Feasibility of Utilizing Employee Assistance Programs 
in the Mining Industry 

Objective : To explore the feasibility of utilizing employee assistance pro- 
grams to reduce accidents associated with employee personal problems. This 
project shall attempt to acquaint the mining industry with the concepts and 
procedures of reducing injuries and accidents through utilization of joint 
management-labor employee assistance programs. An attempt shall be made to 
conduct a demonstration project within one or more companies. This is a con- 
tinuation of an ongoing effort. 

9. Design and Evaluation of Human-Engineered Work Stations for Surface and 
Underground Mining Equipment 

Objective : To provide the resources for technical assistance to the Human 
Factors Working Committee concerning concept development, preparation of work- 
station layout drawings, and mockup fabrication for evaluating the human 
factors guidelines recommended for the equipment. Based on human factors 



22 



guidelines from the committee, work station concepts will be developed and 
followed by detailed work station layout drawings. The most feasible designs 
will be evaluated through fabrications and demonstration of full-scale mock- 
ups. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

10. Evaluation and Comparison of Linear and Branching Delivery Systems 

Objective: To evaluate and compare linear programing format and branching 
programing format, and to develop strategies and materials for certifying 
personnel. The program shall evaluate two media strategies for training effec- 
tiveness, develop branching program materials, and determine and develop par- 
tial electrician certification requirements. This is a continuation of an 
ongoing effort. 

11. A Study of Coal Mine Safety 

Objective: To determine the characteristics of underground coal mines that 
contribute to the safety of the miners. Actions that could be taken to improve 
safety shall be identified and ranked according to potential impact. This is a 
continuation of an ongoing effort. 

12. Demonstration of an In-Mine Training Enhancement and Communication System, 
Phase II 

Objective : To conduct and evaluate a training enhancement and communication 
demonstration project in the underground coal industry. The program shall 
consist of providing training for miners during time spent on the mantrip. All 
hardware shall be designed and fabricated, and a site-specific training program 
shall be developed. This is a new RFP. 

13. A Cost-Benefit Approach to Coal Mine Training 

Objective : To design a cost-benefit model dealing with the evaluation of 
training programs in the mining industry. The program shall focus on the cost 
of training programs relative to cost of lost-time accidents. This is a con- 
tinuation of an ongoing effort. 

14. Study To Determine the Comparability of Pupilographic and Electroculo- 
graphic Measures in Determining Fatigue Effects in Truck Drivers 

Objective: To determine through laboratory testing the comparability of 
pupilographic and electroculographic measures in monitoring fatigue in haulage 
truck drivers. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

15. Research Study To Determine the Applicability of New Methodologies in Mine 
Accident Investigations 

Objective : To assess the applicability of new methodologies and procedures in 
determining complete and accurate antecedent and direct causes of mine 
accidents. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 



23 



16. Development of Baseline Materials for Assisting Compliance and Accident 
Reduction in Noncoal Industry 

Objective: To develop new-miner and annual refresher instructional aids. This 
baseline data shall assist the noncoal industry with compliance with 30 CFR part 
48. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

1 7. Development and Validation of a Training Program for Operators of Under- 
ground Noncoal Mining Equipment 

Objective: To continue with development and validation of training programs 
that will instruct miners in the proper preshift inspection, operating, and 
shutdown procedures for various types of major machines and equipment utilized 
in underground noncoal mines. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

18. Needs Assessment and Training Program Development for Trainers Who Conduct 
Mandated Health and Safety Training 

Objective: To determine the needs of industry instructors relating to tech- 
niques of instruction and subject matter knowledge and to evaluate techniques to 
develop and validate training program to meet those needs. This is a new RFP . 

19. Biomechanical Study of Work in Underground Excluding Low Coal 

Objective: To conduct a biomechanical study of work in underground noncoal with 
the intent of generating data that can be utilized in optimal job work station 
design. Strength and work capacity measurements of miners shall be taken and 
correlated with physical demands of various job tasks. Recommendations for task 
and job redesign shall be made. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

Electrical 



20. Recommended Acceptance Criteria for Potting Materials Used in Explosion- 
Proof Enclosures 

Objective: To investigate the problems associated with using potting materials 
as an explosion protection technique in coal mines. The effects of the mine 
environment and mechanical and electrical stresses shall be researched to aid in 

developing acceptance standards for potting materials used for explosion protec- 
tion. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

21 . Evaluation of High-Voltage-Proximity Warning Devices 

Objective : To finalize the evaluation of high-voltage-proximity warning devices 
that utilize electrostatic field sensors. Feasibility studies of other sensing 
techniques shall also be conducted. This is a continuation of an ongoing 
effort. 

22. Development of Tests and Criteria To Evaluate Grounding Systems 

Objective : To finalize the Bureau's research program in the area of grounding 
in coal mines. Methods of providing grounding on dc equipment shall be proto- 
typed and field-tested. Materials that can be used to make a composite ground 



24 

bed shall be recommended, and an experimental bed shall be installed and moni- 
tored. The merits of using boreholes as ground beds at surface mines shall be 
finalized. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

23. Field Demonstration of a DC Fault Current Limiting and Interruption System 

Objective : To fabricate and in-mine demonstrate the new dc trolley line protec- 
tion system. The design for the commercially viable system is based on a 
mercury-filled current limiting device. This is a continuation of an ongoing 
effort. 

24. Recommendations for Quality Assurance Standards in Explosion-Proof 
Enclosures 

Objective : To develop quality assurance standards for explosion-proof enclo- 
sures"]! These standards would be used by manufacturers and MSHA to ensure that 
the safety of the enclosures is not compromised by poor workmanship. Work on 
the long-term effects of the mining environment on bonding materials shall 
continue. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

25. Mine Power System Safety and Reliability Improvement 

Objective : To extend present knowledge regarding minimum-level arcing currents 
in trailing cables, and to accumulate and analyze performance reliability data 
on fuses, circuit breakers, and other protective devices. Physical testing and 
theoretical analysis of circuit behavior in the presence of arcing faults on 
trailing cables shall continue. Analysis of data and further accumulation of 
protective device reliability data shall also continue, as shall MSHA/BuMines 
support on special problems. Specific items to be investigated include hazard- 
ous arcing on dc trolley lines, trolley system sectionalization, load and recti- 
fier characteristics, and equipment maintenance practices. This is a 
continuation of an ongoing effort. 

26. Mine Trailing Cables and Cable Splices 

Objective : To conduct investigations into a variety of problem areas associ- 
ated with the use of mine trailing cables and splices in underground and sur- 
face mines. New cable designs and splice designs shall be evaluated for the 
ability to withstand the environmental and operational stresses of mining 
operations. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

27. Improvements in DC Fuses 

Objective : To improve the current-interrupting capability of dc fuses. 

Present fuse designs shall be evaluated and improved designs developed. This is 

a new RFP. 

28. Assessment of High-Voltage-Explosion-Protection Techniques 

Objective : To assess the merits of explosion protection techniques for high- 
voltage electrical equipment used in potentially explosive mine atmospheres. 
Explosion-proof enclosures, ventilating, and potting shall be evaluated for 
cost, reliability, safety, etc. This is a new RFP. 



25 

29. Requirements Study for Explosion Tests, Instrumentation, and Facilities 

Objective: To review explosion testing methods, procedures, certification 
criteria, instrumentation, and facilities requirements to help implement the 
relocation and upgrading of MSHA's explosion testing gallery. Recommendations 
based on the latest technological advancements will be made. This is a new 
RFP. 

30. Develop Grounding Practices for Metal and Nonmetal Mines 

Objective: To continue the development of grounding practices for dredges and 
quarries . Ground check monitors will also be evaluated to determine whether or 
not they are cost beneficial for use in metal and nonmetal mines. This is a 
continuation of an ongoing effort. 

31. Guidelines for Electrical Installation in Oil Shale Mines 

Objective: To develop guidelines for the installation of electrical circuits 
and equipment in oil shale mines. The flammable liquids and gases present in 
oil shale mining present special problems relating to electrical wiring methods 
and equipment that will be identified and addressed. This is a new RFP. 



Equipment 

32. Development of ROPS Performance Criteria for Large Mining Equipment 

Objective : To provide data on large machines' ROPS performance criteria by 
actual rollover tests of two large machines to determine if present criteria 
are adequate. Three ROPS for each of two large front-end loaders shall be used 
in the test program. The data from the tests shall be used to verify existing 
performance criteria or develop new criteria. This is a continuation of an 
ongoing effort. 

33. Development of Safer Methods To Clean-Down Storage Bins 

Objective : To develop an easy-to-use handbook for use by the mining industry 
as a guide for the proper selection and use of storage bin equipment. Improved 
safety equipment and practices shall also be designed, fabricated, and demon- 
strated. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

34. Design and Develop a Static Brake-Testing Facility for Testing Brake 
Systems on Mobile Underground Mine Equipment 

Objective : To develop engineering specifications and drawings for a test 
facility capable of providing simulated loading conditions to the braking 
systems of mobile underground mining equipment. Coupled with development of 
testing methods and procedures, this facility will enable MSHA personnel to 
evaluate and certify the performance of brake systems and components. This is 
a new RFP. 



26 

35. Cost-Benefit and Accident Statistical Analysis of Canopies for Both 
Machine Type and Seam Height 

Objective ; To assess the practicality of extending canopy technology to low 
seam heights by analyzing the accident frequency of coal face equipment in 
underground mines. A cost-benefit analysis that considers accident histories, 
equipment trends and populations, and cost of accidents or injuries will be 
conducted and correlated to seam height. Recommendations will be made as to 
the benefits to be derived from further canopy development as a function of 
seam height. This is a new RFP. 

36. Development of Limited Coverage Falling Object Protective Structures for 
Machines Used in Low Coal Seams 

Objective : To develop conceptual designs of falling object protective struc- 
tures of the noncanopy variety for use in low coal. Currently, MSHA regula- 
tions do not require cabs and canopies on machines used in a mining height of 
42 inches or less. Therefore, the vast majority of machines operating in low 
coal have no falling object protection whatsoever. This project shall develop 
limited coverage falling object protective structures (roll bars, falling 
object protective cages, etc.) that provide lifesaving protection from roof 
falls, yet do not severely restrict operator vision or movement. This is a new 
RFP. 

37. Development and Assessment of New and Existing Canopy Technology for Lower 
Coal Seams 

Objective ; To provide equipment operators with protection from roof and rib 
falls in low coal seams by developing a safe, human-engineered cab. A poten- 
tially acceptable canopy concept has been completed; detailed design, fabrica- 
tion, and demonstration of the canopy will be part of this ongoing effort. 

38. Development of Methods To Reduce Slipping and Falling Accidents Caused by 
Water Freezing on Foot-Bearing Surfaces 

Objective ; To reduce the frequency of accidents caused by workpersons slipping 
on iced surfaces built up on walkways, ladders, and other outside walk surfaces. 
This type of accident is very common at surface mineral extraction sites and 
aboveground processing plants that are located in cold climate areas. This is 
a new RFP. 

39. Improved Visibility Systems for Large Haulage Vehicles 

Objective : To evaluate, by means of long-term on-vehicle testing, the reli- 
ability and cost effectiveness of improved components of the improved truck 
driver visibility system on other classes of vehicles, such as front-end 
loaders and shovels. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

40. Extension of Low-Coal Canopy Technology To Include Coal Drill and Cutting 
Machines 

Objective : To apply developed technology for low-coal canopies to coal drills 
and cutting machines. Using state of the art technology, preliminary designs 
and mockup fabrications of canopies for a coal drill and cutting machine shall 



27 



be completed. After approval of the preliminary designs, prototype canopies 
shall be fabricated and in-mine demonstrated. This is a continuation of an 
ongoing effort. 

41. Improved Ingress and Egress Systems for Large Front-End Loaders, Large 
Tracked Dozer, and Loading Shovels 

Objective: To evaluate the safety hazards related to ladders on large front- 
end loaders, large tracked dozers, and loading shovels. New designs shall then 
be developed and demonstrated through in-mine testing. This is a continuation 
of an ongoing effort. 

42. Fabrication and Demonstration of Improved Operators' Cab on an Automatic- 
Steering Low-Coal Shuttle Car 

Objective: To fabricate and demonstrate an improved split-design canopy on a 
low-coal shuttle car equipped with automatic steering. This effort will contin- 
ue to advance the development of a semiautomatic steering system, by incorpora- 
ting a high-visibility split-canopy design. The combination of these two 
developments onto one low coal shuttle car should overcome visibility difficul- 
ties and operator problems encountered in previous demonstrations. This is a 
continution of an ongoing effort. 

43. A Study To Determine the Feasibility of Providing Adequate Human- 
Engineered Operators' Cabs in Thin Seams Through the Use of a Remotely 
Positioned Operator 

Objective : To determine the feasibility of using a remote control miner system 
as an alternative to canopies in low coal seams. The effort shall be to design, 
build, and demonstrate a prototype or retrofit system in an active mine. This 
is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

44. Factory Integration of Optimized Operator Compartment for Newly Designed 
Shuttle Cars for Use in Low Coal Seams 

Objective : To determine the feasibility of producing a practical low-coal shut- 
tle car by designing the machine proper and its functions around an optimized 
operator compartment. This is a new RFP. 

45. Analysis of ROPS in Service for at Least 5 Years 

Objective : To determine if ROPS that have been in service for over 5 years 
since the MSHA requirement of July 1, 1969, are still capable of meeting SAE 
performance criteria. This is a new RFP. 



Illumination 



46. Underground Coal Mine Illumination Systems Manual 

Objective : To develop a comprehensive handbook or systems manual for under- 
ground coal mine illumination. Advancements in lighting technology, available 



28 



lighting equipment, and the technical requirements of MSHA regulations shall be 
addressed. This is a new RFP. 

47. Visibility Requirements for Face and Mobile Underground Coal Mining 
Equipment 

Objective : To analyze work tasks and equipment designs in order to determine 
and generate the visual information required for safe job performance in under- 
ground coal mines. The information collected will aid engineers in the proper 
design and placement of underground work stations. This is a new RFP. 

48. Illumination of Surface Mining Equipment 

Objective: To demonstrate the potential benefits of providing illumination in 
surface mines. Illumination systems designed to meet the requirements of the 
proposed surface illumination regulations shall be fabricated and then demon- 
strated in mine. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 



Nonemergency Communications 



49. Data Security for In-Mine Transmission 

Objective : To provide for a means of sending data throughout a mine in a 
secure and reliable way through both wire and wireless mediums. Standard data 
transmission protocols shall be reviewed and analyzed on the basis of infor- 
mation developed in the previous year's work. The investigation shall involve 
laboratory testing and theoretical analysis, concluding in a recommendation of a 
standard protocol for mine use. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

50. Methodology Development for Mine Life Safety 

Objective : To apply Fault Tree Analysis techniques to the evaluation of the 
reliability of various life safety monitoring systems. The analysis technique 
developed shall be validated by applying the methodology to monitoring system 
case examples. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

51 . Systems Approach to Mine Fire Safety 

Objective : To develop a quantitative evaluation model to be used in rating 
underground fire safety monitoring equipment and techniques for compliance 
with CFR Title 30 requirements. The model shall be computer based and have the 
capability of evaluating alternative mine designs and fire protection systems. 
This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

52. Buried Cable Feasibility Study, Phase II 

Objective : To survey and recommend appropriate equipment to be used in the 
buried cable system defined in the Phase I report. This is a continuation of 
an ongoing effort. 






29 



53. Performance Standards for Fire Detectors 

Objective : To develop an evaluation methodology and apparatus for measuring 
specific fire detection sensor characteristics and to develop optimum perfor- 
mance standards for fire sensors. Phase II of this contract shall be the 
detailed design of the sensor evaluation program and test apparatus. This is a 
continuation of an ongoing effort. 

54. Communications Engineering and Administration Services for Sunshine Mine 

Objective : To demonstrate a minewide selective-dial telephone system using com- 
mercially available equipment in a metal or nonmetal mine. The system has been 
in operation about three years. Newer, more reliable solid state intercoms 
shall be installed to replace existing electromechanically switched intercoms. 
An alternate hardwire communications link to the surface shall be completed. 
System expansion into the new #12 shaft area shall be begun, and hoist room 
phones shall be used as private lines to the surface to avoid system overload in 
the event of an emergency condition. This is a continuation of an ongoing 
effort. 

55. Communications Engineering and Administration Services for Black River 
Mine 

Objective : To demonstrate a commercially available UHF radio system and a com- 
prehensive environmental monitoring and fire detection system in an underground 
limestone mine. The system allows communications with other inaccessible 
personnel scattered throughout the mine and will permit detection of fire 

against high-diesel-particulate backgrounds. A preliminary environmental data 
gathering system shall be field-tested to obtain data for the selection of 
appropriate monitoring-f ire detection equipment and sensors. Installation of a 
comprehensive monitoring-f ire detection system shall be completed. A study of 
the monitoring-f ire detection system shall be performed concurrently with the 
radio study. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 



Haulage and Materials Handling 

56. Development and Utilization of the Stirling Engine for Powering Under- 
ground Mining Equipment 

Objective : To demonstrate that a Stirling engine can be used to power under- 
ground mining machinery within acceptable emission levels, thereby removing the 
ever-hazardous trailing cable. The contractor shall assess the design changes 
needed to use the Stirling engine as a power source for underground mining 
equipment. This effort shall be directed toward the engine modifications 
needed for compliance with standards that specify safety requirements for 
mining equipment. An engine shall then be fabricated and evaluated by dynamo- 
meter testing. This is a new RFP. 



30 



57. Statistical Analysis of Wire Rope 

Objective : To determine from existing wire rope test data the effect of 
different operating parameters on rope life and to develop an optimum statis- 
tical methodology for analysis of that data. This is a continuation of an 
ongoing effort. 

58. Personnel Transport Vehicle Demonstration 

Objective : To modify an existing transport vehicle to incorporate performance 
and safety concepts developed under previous Bureau programs, including 
improved seat construction, bumper and crash protection, redundant power 
brakes, and improved steering systems. This prototype vehicle shall then be 
demonstrated in mine. This is a new RFP. 

59. Development of Track Maintenance Systems 

Objective : To reduce derailments by keeping the track clean and easy to 
inspect. A simple, rugged, automatic track cleaner for use in underground 

mines shall be designed, fabricated, and in-mine demonstrated. This is a new 
RFP. 

60. General Purpose Maintenance and Material Handling Vehicle 

Objective : To modify a mining vehicle to safely perform general purpose main- 
tenance and handling of bulky materials such as railroad rails and pipes. The 
vehicle shall be demonstrated in an underground coal mine. This is a contin- 
uation of an ongoing effort. 

61. Tire and Rim Maintenance and Handling of Safety 

Objective : To evaluate procedures and technology related to mine tire and rim 
maintenance and handling activities. The ultimate objective is to identify 
those procedures and technology that can reduce the hazards associated with 
this work. This is a new RFP. 

62. Performance Criteria for Wire Rope Terminations 

Objective : To determine the type and range of loading a particular application 
might impose upon a rope termination, and then develop performance criteria 
which a termination must meet before it could be used for that particular 
application. This is -a new RFP. 

63. Haulroad Berm, Guardrail, and Sign Design Study 

Objective : To provide guidelines for the design of berms and protective guard- 
rails for haulage roads. The sizes, shapes, strengths, and material compo- 
sition of berms shall be determined for the different size classes of haulage 
equipment. This is the continuation of an ongoing effort. 






31 



64. Safety Evaluation of Conveyor Belt Cleaning Systems 

Objective: To reduce the number of accidents associated with the cleaning of 
conveyor belts and areas by eliminating the need for hazardous hand labor 
clean-up operations. Existing conveyor belt cleaning systems shall be evalu- 
ated, and recommendations shall be made for improved effectiveness and safety. 
This is a new RFP. 

65. Belt Conveyor Maintenance and Inspection Procedures 

Objective: To prepare a conveyor maintenance manual that will define proce- 
dures and tools to be used for safe maintenance. A program for training mine 
personnel in the proper use of the procedures shall also be prepared. This is 
a new RFP. 



66. Improve Equipment Design To Reduce Injuries Related To Haulage Truck 
Maintenance 

Objective : To reduce injuries resulting from maintenance operations on mine 
haulage trucks by improving the design of machine components shown to be parti- 
cularly hazardous to maintain. Factors to be considered may include equipment 
design component selection and location, materials of construction, maintenance 
requirements, costs associated with proposed modifications, etc. This is a new 
RFP. 

67. Nondestructive Testing for Wire Rope Retirement 

Objective : To examine and determine the applicability of new nondestructive 
testing techniques for wire rope retirement. This is a new RFP. 



Post Disaster 



Program Objectives : To develop technology that will (1) enable survivors of a 
mine disaster to escape from the mine or to continue to survive while awaiting 
rescue by providing protection against toxic and/or oxygen-def icient atmo- 
spheres, (2) aid in the location of miners trapped underground, using seismic 
and electromagnetic means of communication, and (3) facilitate post disaster 
rescue and recovery operations through surface monitoring of conditions under- 
ground, emergency communications, and mechanized transport and life support 
equipment for mine reentry and rescue operations. 



Survival 



1 . Long-Term Study of the Effects of the Mining Environment on Oxygen Self- 
Rescuers 

Objective : To subject oxygen self-rescuers to the conditions of underground 
mining to determine potential problems in the design and use of the equipment, 
This is a new RFP. 



32 



2. Physiological Responses of Coal Miners to Emergency 

Objective : To quantitatively evaluate the physiologic responses of miners to 
the demands brought about by emergency conditions, the biophysical interaction 
between the miner and the prevailing environmental conditions during emergency, 
and physiologic responses of rescue team members, including studies of fatigue 
when working for longer than 2 hours, effect of weight and breathing resistance 
of breathing apparatus on men, effect of inhalation of hot air, and effective- 
ness of missions. Research products shall be reports and journal articles and 
input to contracts developing hardware. Training manuals shall also be writ- 
ten. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

3. Improved Oxygen Sources for Breathing Appartus 

Objective : To develop solid chemicals that provide more oxygen per source to 
be used in future oxygen self-rescuer development. This is a continuation of 
an ongoing effort. 

4. Handbook of Mine Rescue Equipment 

Objective : To update the miner's Handbook on Mine Rescue Apparatus and 
Auxiliary Equipment that was published in 1961. This is a new RFP. 

5. Compressed-Oxygen Self-Rescuer 

Objective : To develop a 1-hour compressed-oxygen self-rescuer, comparable in 
size and weight to available 02 self-rescuers. Seventy-five acceptable units 
shall be delivered to the Bureau of Mines for further tests and demonstrations 
in FY 82. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

6. Evaluation of New 30 CFR 11 Human Subject Test 

Objective : To test current breathing apparatus to determine the ability of 
these devices to validate newly developed person-tests for 30 CFR 11. Contrac- 
tor shall also test effect of using positive-pressure breathing apparatus with 
new person-tests. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 



Communications 



7 . Electromagnetic Rescue System for Deep Mines 

Objective : Over the past several years, the Bureau has been experimenting with 
VF communication sy terns for detection and location of men trapped underground. 
The present system has been shown to be effective in a substantial number of 
coal mines and it is anticipated, that for mines no deeper than 330 meters, the 
technology is adequate. However, for deeper mines, which comprise about 10 
percent in number and involve 30 percent of the work force, improvements will 

be necessary. The overall goal of this effort is to investigate possible 
alternatives, select the most promising of these options, and build and 
demonstrate implementing hardware. This is a continuing effort. 



33 



8. Reliability Study of Trapped Miner EM Transmitters 

Objective: To conduct a test program that will determine the durability and 
reliability of the Bureau-developed trapped miner location system, and to sub- 
mit a comprehensive final report on all work, conclusions, and recommendations, 
This is a new RFP. 

9. Real-Time Seismic Autodetection 

Objective: During the past year the Bureau has funded work to develop 
algorithms to enable MSHA's trapped miner seismic location system to automati- 
cally detect and locate trapped miners. However, these algorithms will not be 
capable of implementing real-time operation with the present system. The 
objective of this proposed contract is to provide real-time operation of the 
developed algorithms. This is a new RFP. 

10. Visible Light Closed-Circuit Television Probe 

Objective : To incorporate the latest state of the art electronics in a closed- 
circuit television borehole probe. This is a new RFP. 

1 1 . System Study of Mine Rescue Through Electromagnetic Means 

Objective : To determine the various factors influencing mine rescue attempts 
and how the utilization of electromagnetic devices in the rescue attempts 
impact on these factors. This is a new RFP. 



Rescue and Mine Recovery 



12. Assessment of New Drilling Technology To Improve Mine Rescue Systems 

Objective : To assess mine rescue drilling methods in the light of current 
technology. Develop new equipment and systems if warranted. This is a new 
RFP. 

13. Low-Profile Rescue Breathing Apparatus 

Objective : To build 10 preproduction units of a 2-hour, low-profile, 
compressed-oxygen rescue breathing apparatus (RBA) that will be suitable for 

use in low coal and at longwall faces. The RBA's shall be available for MSHA 
evaluation in early FY 82. This is a new RFP. 

14. Remote-Controlled Mine Rescue and Exploratory Vehicle 

Objective : To develop a remotely controlled mine rescue-exploratory vehicle 
capable of maneuvering through a post disaster mine environment and relaying 
high-quality TV pictures and selected remote-sensing readings from within the 
mine. This is a new RFP. 



34 



Explosives 

Program Objectives : To assess the problems associated with the safe and effec- 
tive use of explosives in all types of mining activity; these include fixed 
explosives, blasting agents, blasting devices, and blasting accessories. To 
conduct fundamental studies of explosive behavior and apply the results in the 
development of new technology. To develop new and improved test procedures as 
new mining methods are introduced and new types of explosives are formulated. 



Blasting Agents and Other Hazardous Chemicals 

1 . Surface Storage Facilities for Explosives, Blasting Agents, and Other 
Explosives Materials" 

Objective : To determine the hazards associated with surface storage facilities 
and develop guidelines for location, construction, and protective measures. 
This is a new RFP. 

2 . Blasting Practices in Noncoal Gassy Mines 

Objective : To study blasting procedures in current use in gassy noncoal oper- 
ations, point out some potentially hazardous practices, and make recommenda- 
tions for increased safety. This is a new RFP. 



Systems Engineering 



Program Objectives : To operate and maintain underground research and 
test facilities for use in testing and demonstrating new procedures and 
equipment before they are field-tested in commercial mines. To participate in 
processing health and safety standards. 



System Analysis 



1 . Research To Improve Health and Safety Programs in the Mining Industry 

Objective : To ascertain existing occupational illness and accident reduction 
methods effectively being used by mining companies and other potentially 
hazardous industries with the intent of developing and validating health and 
safety programs that can be tailored to the individual needs of companies 

throughout the mining industry in order to reduce accidents and injuries, 
including occupational diseases. To identify any health and safety problem 
areas within the raining industry that may surface during this study that are 
susceptible to solution through research or application of state of the art 
knowledge. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 



35 



2. Survey of Large-Mine-Equipment Automation To Improve Safety 

Objective : To review the state of the art of automation technology (both elec- 
tronic and servomechanical sciences) and delineate areas where the technology 
could be "ruggedized" and applied to help solve large, surface-mining-equipment 
safety problems. This is a new RFP. 

3. Study of Face Hazards — Roof Falls and Methane Measurements 

Objective: To review and study the occurrence of face ignitions, effective- 
ness of methane monitors, and roof-fall-related accidents and injuries, espe- 
cially those directly related to making preshift examinations, 20-minute gas 
checks, and gas checks prior to entry of electrical face equipment. To perform 
a risk analysis considering the findings above and determine under what condi- 
tions it would be less hazardous to make the methane measurements, or whether 
other methane measurement procedures could be followed that would provide equal 
or enhanced protection. This is a new RFP. 

4. Computer Modeling (With Graphic Presentations) of the New Machine Work 
Environment Interface 

Objective : To develop a computer model capable of researching the operator- 
machine-work environment interface. To determine the optimal design of machine 
parameters in order to make them compatible with human capabilities and limita- 
tion. This is a new RFP. 

5. Development of a Pilot Program for Underground Mine Rescue and Emergency 
Utilizing Cooperative Resources 

Objective : To investigate ways and means by which State facilities can be 
utilized in responding to mine disasters. This is a continuation of an ongoing 
effort. 



Test Facilities 



6 . Wire Rope Tensile Testing Machines 

Objective : To build a wire rope tensile testing machine and test hoist ropes 
of commonly used sizes and construction to obtain reliable data that can be 
used to improve retirement criteria standards, aid users in proper wire rope 
selection, improve MSHA inspection procedures, and improve MSHA wire rope regu- 
lations. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 

7. Wire Rope Fatigue Testing Machine 

Objective : To build a wire rope fatigue testing machine and test hoist ropes 
of commonly used sizes and construction to obtain reliable data that can be 
used to improve retirement criteria standards, aid users in proper rope selec- 
tion, improve MSHA inspection procedures, and improve MSHA safety regulations. 
This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 



36 



8. Lake Lynn Laboratory 

Objective : To provide a new underground mine test facility to evaluate new 
methods and techniques for extinguishing coal dust explosions in underground 
mines and also construct a laboratory and office building on the surface. This 
is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 



t>U.S GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE: 1981-703-002/08 



INT.-BU.OF MINES, PGH., PA. 25274 



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